Dubai: H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Finance, and President of the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), today met with Masahiro Kihara, President and Group CEO of Mizuho Financial Group, at The Ruler's Court in Dubai. The meeting aimed to strengthen ties between the UAE and one of Japan's largest financial institutions.
According to Emirates News Agency, H.H. Sheikh Maktoum emphasized the UAE's dedication to fostering relationships with prominent global financial entities as part of its strategy to enhance its influence in the international financial sector. He highlighted the UAE's advanced infrastructure, efficient regulations, and progressive business environment as key factors that make it an attractive hub for financial firms exploring growth opportunities in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia (MEASA) region.
The dialogue underscored Dubai's strategic plans for bolstering its financial sector, including ambitions to enhance capital market depth and liquidity. This aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to position the city among the world's top four financial centers. The city's pro-business policies were also noted for their role in attracting leading financial institutions and fostering global partnerships.
Further discussions explored potential avenues for Mizuho Financial Group to expand its presence in the region and collaborate in emerging financial sectors, particularly those driven by new financial and digital technologies. Dubai's growing status as a gateway for Japanese companies looking to expand globally, especially within the MEASA region, was also a focal point.
The meeting was attended by key figures including Mohamed bin Hadi Al Hussaini, Minister of State for Financial Affairs; Helal Almarri, Director General of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET); Essa Kazim, Governor of DIFC; and Hesham Abdulla Al Qassim, Vice Chairman and Managing Director of Emirates NBD.
Mizuho Financial Group, headquartered in Tokyo, offers comprehensive financial and non-financial solutions through its global network, which includes banking, securities, and asset management services. The Group serves a varied client base and reported total assets of approximately ¥285 trillion as of December 31, 2024. With over 52,000 employees as of March 31, 2024, Mizuho operates in Dubai through its subsidiaries, Mizuho Bank and Mizuho International, both located in the DIFC.